UK economy grows, beating expectations
Plans to build a ‘stronger economy and stronger communities’ outlined in NE Lincs
- The continued transformation of Children’s Services. The plan details how current work is having a ‘positive impact on outcomes for our children and young people, as well as supporting financial sustainability’.
- Again, with a focus on transformation, attention will be put on Adult Social Care where innovative solutions will be explored. This will help to meet an increase in demand and complexity of care.
- Continuing with a ‘commercial approach’ to grow a strong and sustainable economy. It details how major investments, such as the redevelopment of Freshney Place, are progressing and will support the borough at a time of economic challenge.
- A pledge to ensure the capital programme is reviewed regularly to ensure schemes remain viable. This approach, adds the report, will help ensure plans remain ‘affordable, sustainable and prudent’.
Student housing portfolio relisted at £30M after price reduction
Beachrock has significantly lowered the asking price for a purpose-built student accommodation (PBSA) portfolio, now seeking £30 million after initially marketing the properties at £90 million. The portfolio comprises over 1,000 student beds across Coventry, Nottingham, and Sheffield.
The assets are spread across Coventry, Nottingham, and Sheffield. Initially part of the offering, a Cambridge property is no longer included. The remaining properties, which vary in size and price per bed, are available for purchase individually or as a group, with offers due by March 20.
The portfolio is now priced at £26,300 per bedroom, aligning with previous market interest. Beachrock stated that the new price reflects previous interest in the portfolio, aligning with market valuations.
M54-M6 Link road upgrade could reduce congestion and improve freight movement
According to a new analysis from Midlands Connect, a proposed road link between the M54 and M6 in Staffordshire could significantly cut congestion and improve freight movement. The project, which would connect Junction 1 of the M54 to Junction 11 of the M6, is expected to divert thousands of vehicles off local roads and onto a more efficient motorway route.
The A460 carries around 20,000 vehicles daily, with freight accounting for 28% of the traffic. If the link road is completed, traffic on the A460 could drop to just 4,000 vehicles per day, reducing congestion and improving journey times. The most significant delays occur between the Laney Green Interchange and the A460/M6 Toll junction, where peak-hour speeds are well below the national average.
Supporters of the project highlight the environmental benefits of diverting freight from residential areas and the potential for improved transport efficiency. The government approved the link road in 2022, but with the Department for Transport currently reviewing its spending priorities, no timeline has been confirmed for its construction.
Staffordshire County Council has backed the project, citing its potential to enhance connectivity, reduce emissions, and support long-term regional investment.
Capital thinking – OTB Legal adds expertise
Housing and business development approved near Chesterfield supermarket
Plans for new housing and commercial units in the Goytside area of Chesterfield have received conditional approval.
The development includes five three-bedroom houses on the corner of Factory Street and Goytside Road. Each home will feature brick construction, grey roofing tiles, front and rear gardens, and two parking spaces. The site is next to a Lidl supermarket, with existing residential properties to the east and former industrial land to the south and west.
In addition, five business units will be built on Goytside Road near a power substation. Each unit will have dedicated parking. The approved plans aim to bring both residential and commercial growth to the area.
Funding uncertainty looms over £200 million North Hykeham Relief Road
Lincolnshire County Council is still waiting for confirmation on government funding for the £200 million North Hykeham Relief Road, which would complete the ring road around Lincoln. Despite previous commitments, uncertainty has grown following a review of capital spending ordered by the new Labour government.
The previous Conservative administration had pledged £110 million toward the project, which is expected to cost around £190 million. If that funding is withdrawn, council leaders warn the project may not move forward unless alternative sources can be secured.
While the Department for Transport has not officially halted funding, the council must submit a final business case before the government releases funds. That approval is expected in autumn, but the outcome remains uncertain.
Work is still progressing, with archaeological surveys, site clearance, and utility diversions planned for later this year, followed by major construction in early 2026. However, concerns remain that without government support, the relief road could be at risk of cancellation.
Local officials continue to push for clarity, emphasising the road’s importance in reducing congestion and improving transport links in the region.
Apprenticeships more feasible for East Midlands firms says Chamber
Iconic property in Nottingham’s Old Market Square acquired
Free marketing course to help small businesses grow in 2025
Small Business Britain is partnering with Adobe Express to launch a free six-week marketing programme aimed at helping small businesses improve their branding and sales strategies. The initiative comes in response to research showing that over 60% of small business owners prioritise sales and customer acquisition, while nearly half want to enhance their social media marketing skills.
Starting on February 25, 2025, up to 500 small businesses across the UK will have the opportunity to join the Small Business Britain x Adobe Express Marketing School. The programme will focus on key marketing areas such as brand identity, social media strategies, and video marketing. Participants will gain hands-on experience using Adobe Express, a design tool that allows users to create professional-quality marketing materials without prior design expertise.
Each week, Adobe’s Senior Manager of Product, Andy Lambert will lead interactive workshops designed to provide practical marketing insights. The course will include live demonstrations, showing how businesses can quickly create standout content, from social media graphics to branded materials. Participants will also have access to a LinkedIn group to connect with peers and share learnings.
The programme aims to give small business owners the tools and confidence to elevate their marketing efforts, making professional design and content creation more accessible.
